2009 BMW M3 vs. 1974 Chevrolet Nova
To start off, 2009 BMW M3 is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Chevrolet Nova. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Chevrolet Nova would be higher. At 4,299 cc (8 cylinders), 1974 Chevrolet Nova is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 306 more horse power than 1974 Chevrolet Nova. (108 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1974 Chevrolet Nova. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Chevrolet Nova weights approximately 10 kg more than 2009 BMW M3.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2009 BMW M3 (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 128 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Chevrolet Nova. (272 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2009 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Chevrolet Nova.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW M3 | 1974 Chevrolet Nova | |
| Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
| Model | M3 | Nova |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3999 cc | 4299 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 414 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8300 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 272 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1525 kg | 1535 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4620 mm | 5000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2830 mm |
